“Baby Proofing” Basics?

When it comes to protecting your little loved ones from injuring themselves around the home, there are few lengths we would not go to! However, as adults, it can be hard to conjure up all of the various was that an infant or a toddler could hurt themselves. Let’s be honest – when was the last time you crawled around the house on your hands and knees? Been awhile? Me too! There are a vast number of kits that you can spend a great deal of money on that will help you childproof your home. However, it’s not necessary to spend an arm and a leg to ensure your child stays out of harm’s way. Keep reading to get find out our six essentials for childproofing your home!

1. Cover outlets – This may seem like a no brainer, but make sure you cover every outlet that your child could possibly access. This means, depending upon their age, you’ve got to consider the possibility that he or she can climb on chairs, tables, and other furniture to reach outlets. Remain vigilant, and make sure to replace any covers on outlets after you’ve used them, as well! Small outlet covers are very inexpensive, and widely available – this is an investment that you will not regret! Alternatively or in a pinch, use duct tape.

2. Soften corners – Corners of any kind can be cause major boo-boo’s for young children. While many of us adults may not find running into the coffee table hugely painful, think about when it happens to your funny bone. Or, think back to the last time that you stubbed your toe, or hit your shin on a hard surface. That’s what little ones feel every time they run into a corner! This post is a fantastic DIY for helping soften corners! — http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Baby-Proof-Sharp-Corners-on-the-CHEAP/

3. Close cabinets – The last thing you want is your child rooting around under the kitchen sink. From bleach, to plastic bags, SOS pads, to name a few, it is a cocktail of things dangerous to children. That said, the kitchen cabinets aren’t the only ones that pose a threat to your child. What about that home entertainment system, with all the wires and cables behind the glass door? It’s important to make sure that you’ve got all cabinets closed unless you’re actively using them. This can be achieved by simply stretching a rubber band around both knobs!

4. Stop slips – Once they learn how to run, young children look like track stars darting around the house from one activity to another. This makes it oh so important to ensure that you’re doing everything that you can to prevent slips and falls. One of the best things you can do is place anti-slip rubber matting under all of your rugs. This will prevent them from moving, and thus almost certainly ensure that your little one doesn’t take an untimely spill. This goes for bathtubs too, where children are prone to slipping. We recommend a man with suction cups to avoid slips.

5. Avoid burns – This tip spans a variety of places in the household, but is most important in the kitchen. Children are terribly susceptible to getting burned, as they don’t know the same cues we do about appliances in operation (think steam from a dishwasher, or a light on in the oven). As such, ensure that pot and pan handles are always turned inward, and cannot be bumped or reached by children. Remember to keep your oven, and dishwasher latched at all times. By always keeping both of them locked, you will create a good habit that keeps you from having to remember to do so every time they are on. Don’t forget about high temperatures when you learn the kitchen, however. Make sure to put away any curling or flat irons immediately after use, and always make sure you have the bath water at a safe temperature before your child gets in the tub.